I got half way - Do I cross again?
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by lucienaw:
(¯`â€Â¢._.â€Â¢[Critique Club]â€Â¢._.â€Â¢Ã‚´Â¯)

For the most part, at first glance I really like this photograph and the effects you've used to distort it, giving it that 'fish-eye' effect, despite using a straight 17-55mm lens. The attention of the viewer is instantly drawn into the centre of the photograph at the model sitting on the flowerbed. The way in which he looks straight at the camera works well to represent your title, as though asking the question to the camera and it provides a good basis for the photograph. Well, you came in the top fifth which you should be very happy with, although I think the reason you didn't go further wasn't through any fault in the technical aspects, as there seems to be very little wrong with the photo itself; but with its deviation from the competition title. There isn't a lot in this that represents procrastination that I can see, except perhaps for the fact that the person is not continuing to cross the road.

I think the car on the left is in a shutter speed 'no man's land'. In my experience, I find that photographs should either have elements that are deliberately blurred with a long shutter speed for a motion effect, or they should remain crisp and still, and in my opinion, the car just looks out of focus and distracting. However, I think you made a good choice with the shutter speed and aperture, as it certainly brings out some of the other elements in the photograph really well, especially the details of the sky and subject, as well as creating that dark and gloomy atmosphere. I especially like the silhouetted palm tree in the background, centering the entire image and despite what the comment before this one says, the photograph seems much more powerful in black and white.

Overall, I'm surprised that this picture didn't actually go further but don't take it personally. From browsing through your profile it would appear that your other outdoor shots are certainly up to scratch.

Good Luck for all Future Competitions!

.â€Â¢Ã‚´Â¯`â€Â¢->Lucien<-â€Â¢Ã‚´Â¯`â€Â¢.

On the range
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by caba:
A. Adams would be proud of your tones, nice perspective too, well done.

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by eyeofmymind:
Perfect position of the sun. But the backround looks fake.

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by jfwolpert:
i love the light behind his head

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by Rob O:
Outstanding technical qualities here with terrific quality of light and superb composition ... this would make a great stock photo! That said, it doesn't readily speak to the theme without a title. *7* (if only because the connection with the theme is missing for me)

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by Alexgio:
I love fishing....

On the range
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by Brad:
Oh now this is one of the best black & whites I've run across in this challenge.
This is professional-quality all the way and adding to my favorites.

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by snaffles:
what kind of fish is this?

Fishing Match winner
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by Whitekittykitty:
that is a gross fish!!!

On the range
by jblaylockrayner

Comment by goc:
great, excellent ... the grass on the right is very minor distraction ... actually when i look again it really fits there ... 10!